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What Happens During Your DWI Assessment?
- Crystal Hotchkin
- Nov 6
- 4 min read
If you're facing a DWI charge in North Carolina, you've probably heard that you need a "substance use assessment." The uncertainty about what to expect can make an already stressful situation feel even more overwhelming.
Take a breath. We're here to walk you through exactly what happens during a DWI assessment so you know what to expect when you walk through our doors.
Why Choose Hotch Healing for Your DWI Assessment Partner
We Get It—This Is Hard At Hotch Healing in Wake Forest, Domonique Blackmon, LCMHC, LCAS, specializes in DWI assessments and ADETS programs. She understands you're likely dealing with shame, anxiety, and uncertainty about your future. You'll find no judgment here—just professional support to help you move forward.
Convenient Wake Forest Location Serving the greater Raleigh area, including North Raleigh, Youngsville, Rolesville, and throughout Wake County. No need to travel far when you're already dealing with transportation challenges.
State-Recognized and Court-Approved We're fully licensed to provide the assessments and education programs required by North Carolina courts and the DMV for license restoration.
What Is a DWI Assessment?
A DWI assessment is a state-mandated evaluation that determines what level of education or treatment you need before your license can be reinstated. Think of it as a conversation, not a test. There are no trick questions or traps—just an honest discussion about your relationship with alcohol or substances.
The assessment helps determine whether you need:
ADETS (Alcohol Drug Education Traffic School) - a 16-hour education program
Short-term outpatient treatment - typically 20 hours
Long-term outpatient treatment - 40 hours
Intensive outpatient or inpatient treatment - for more serious situations
Most first-time offenders with a BAC under 0.15 qualify for ADETS, the education program.
Your Assessment: Step by Step
Before You Arrive
Gather these documents (don't stress if you're missing something—we can help):
Photo ID
Court papers from your DWI case
Your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) reading or refusal report
NC driving record (within the last 30 days)
Front and back of your insurance card
Schedule your assessment as soon as possible. The sooner you complete it, the sooner you can begin working toward license restoration.
During Your Assessment
Check-In (10-15 minutes) You'll complete some paperwork about your background, health history, and the circumstances of your DWI. The state-mandated fee is $100, payable when you schedule.
The Conversation (45-60 minutes) Domonique will talk with you privately about:
The events leading to your DWI
Your history with alcohol or other substances
How drinking fits into your life currently
Any previous treatment or counseling
Your support system and coping strategies
Remember: This isn't about judging you. It's about understanding your situation to recommend the right next steps.
Assessment Tools We'll use standardized screening tools to help evaluate your needs. These aren't pass/fail tests—they're simply tools to ensure you get appropriate recommendations.
After Your Assessment
Your Recommendation Based on our conversation, you'll receive a recommendation for either education (ADETS) or treatment. Most people are relieved to learn they qualify for the education program.
Next Steps If you're recommended for ADETS:
Enroll within 6 months of your assessment
Complete the 16-hour program (typically over 4 days)
Program cost: $160 plus $25 for the workbook
We offer ADETS at Hotch Healing, so you can complete everything in one familiar place.
Documentation You'll receive the official paperwork needed for court and the DMV. We handle all the state reporting requirements—one less thing for you to worry about.
What If You're From Out of State?
We accept out-of-state referrals with proper documentation. If you got a DWI in North Carolina but live elsewhere, we can help you meet the requirements for license restoration.
Making the Most of Your Required Program
Here's something people don't expect: Many clients tell us their DWI assessment and education program became a turning point. Not because they had a "problem," but because it gave them space to think about their choices and make positive changes.
You might:
Learn strategies for safer decision-making
Understand how alcohol affects your body and judgment
Develop plans to avoid future legal troubles
Connect with others going through similar experiences
Reduce anxiety about social situations without drinking
Common Questions and Concerns
"Will this go on my permanent record?" Your assessment is confidential medical information. We only report what's required to the DMV for license restoration.
"What if I disagree with the recommendation?" You have the right to request a second opinion from another licensed agency.
"I don't think I have a problem with alcohol." Most people who come for DWI assessments don't have alcohol use disorders. The assessment simply ensures you get the appropriate level of intervention—which for many people is just education.
"How long before I can get my license back?" This depends on various factors including your BAC level and whether this is a first offense. We'll help you understand your specific timeline.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
We know this isn't where you planned to be, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Domonique and our team at Hotch Healing are here to guide you through the assessment process with respect, professionalism, and zero judgment.
The hardest part is making the call. Once you're here, we'll take care of you.
Contact Hotch Healing today to schedule your DWI assessment. We have flexible scheduling, including evening appointments, to work around your schedule.
Hotch Healing is a fully licensed DWI services provider in Wake Forest, North Carolina. We're authorized to conduct substance use assessments and provide ADETS education programs. Our mission is to help you meet court requirements while supporting positive life changes.